Defending champions Mexico will face Saudi Arabia on Saturday night at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals. Though Mexico will be playing Saturday's game without midfielder Luis Chávez, who suffered a ruptured ligament this week, the team is still favored in this year's tournament.

Suriname goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen, left, watches a header by Mexico defender César Montes enter his net for a goal during a CONCACAF Gold Cup soccer match Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) AP

BBC Sport explores why Saudi Arabia are participating in a tournament for North and Central American countries